Why Does Solo Game Development Cost Money?

Truly solo game development doesn't necessarily cost money, but the reality is rare that a single individual can handle every aspect of game development—programming, art, gameplay, music, and sound effects. This often leads to additional costs as one takes on external help. Let's explore why solo game development can be an expensive endeavor and how these costs shape the indie game development landscape.

Opportunity Cost

You Need to Eat. Time Is Money.

Indie games often take a significant amount of time to complete. Some projects, such as Undertale and Stardew Valley, have taken years of development. For instance, Norberto Fansler, the creator of Undertale, spent seven years on the game. Seven years of development time translates to an opportunity cost of about a million dollars, which could have been a full-time salary in the same period. Even when working part-time, every hour spent on game development means a missed opportunity to earn income. Thus, the time invested in game development can be incredibly costly.

Equipment Cost

You Can't Do It by Scratching Shapes in Dirt with a Stick.

Game development requires specialized tools and equipment. While some software and hardware options are free, the necessity of these tools often necessitates an investment. A powerful computer and quality game development software are essential. Even if you own a gaming machine, the software required for development might not be the same as what is used for casual gaming. This additional investment can be substantial.

Assets

Unless You Can Literally Do Everything or Find Free Versions, You Will Have to Buy Stuff.

The realm of game assets is vast and varied. Unless a solo developer possesses the talent and time to create every aspect of a game, options such as music, sound effects, art, voice lines, 3D assets, animations, and translations need to be sourced. These can all add up, especially if one chooses to prioritize high-quality assets. Many developers opt for pre-made assets to expedite the development process, as creating every element from scratch would be both time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Publicity and Advertising

Getting the Word Out Is Challenging.

Despite the potential of social media and word of mouth, reaching a broader audience can be difficult. A solo developer’s network is typically limited to friends and followers, with the reach extending only a few degrees beyond that. Going viral on social media is a rare event, making the need for paid advertising and other promotional strategies essential. Platforms like Google Ads and social media ads can be pricey, often costing at least 1$ per click, sometimes several times that amount. To achieve a significant number of downloads, one might need several hundred thousand clicks, turning publicity into a substantial expense.

Conclusion

While solo game development can be a rewarding endeavor, it often comes with a price tag. The costs associated with opportunity, equipment, assets, and publicity can significantly impact a developer's bottom line. Understanding these costs is crucial for anyone considering entering the world of indie game development. By recognizing these expenses, developers can make informed decisions and better prepare for the financial realities of creating a game.